Olympus SZ-12 vs Pentax W80

Here, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Pentax W80, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the W80 (12MP) is fairly well matched and both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was manufactured 2 years later than the W80 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief overview of how the SZ-12 grades against the W80 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 and Pentax Optio W80. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 comes with physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax W80 has specifications of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-12 versus Pentax W80 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-12 and the W80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and W80 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualize the gap between sensor measurements merely by checking specs. The photograph here might give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and W80.

All in all, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size but different resolution. You should anticipate the Olympus SZ-12 to resolve greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos way more aggressively. The more modern SZ-12 should have an edge in sensor tech.